First Officer

As the Deck Department Head, the First Officer is responsible for the safe, effective and efficient management and supervision of deck department employees. Ensures sound fiscal management and adherence to budget guidelines by deck department employees. Has a thorough knowledge of the CMPI and DHAMS. Serves as the ships’ safety officer, training officer, damage control officer, vessel security officer, oil spill coordinator and (may be) gas free engineer. On ships without a Master, the OIC/Chief Mate is the Officer in Charge (OIC) of the entire CIVMAR contingent onboard regardless the disparity between formal pay rate designators.

As second in command of the ship, is directly accountable to the Master for all matters pertaining to management, operation, care, safety, and physical condition of deck department operations and keeps the Master informed in those areas. Keeps abreast of all ship’s business matters and acts on behalf of the Master when he/she is not available. Maintains a functional understanding of ship’s mission, operations, command relationships, and operational reports. Acts as a Command Duty officer (CDO) in charge of the Shipboard Reaction Force (SRF) and fire parties on ships so organized. Performs emergency duties as assigned by the Master and reflected on the Station Bill.

Responsible for the proper planning, loading, stowage and discharge of cargo and maintenance of the ship in a safe and stable condition. Prior to sailing, inspects the ship to ascertain there are no structural defects and that hatches, side ports, cargo gear, cargo and equipment are secured properly. Using Ship Automated Maintenance Management (SAMM) prepares and submits deck department repair list. Submits a list of Voyage Repair Requests (VRR’s) to the Chief Engineer for maintenance and repair of deck related items that are beyond the capabilities of ship’s force and require outside industrial assistance. Monitors the progress of VRR’s; inspects repairs made by shoreside personnel and makes reports of inspections to the Master and Chief Engineer.

As training officer, is responsible for training of all personnel in their duties during replenishment or mission operations, and for the compilation and submission of all required departmental training reports. Ensures deck officers maintain their proficiency in safe navigational practices and ensures crewmembers are properly trained to respond to all emergencies.

As Damage Control Officer, is responsible for ensuring that station bills are properly prepared and posted, that fire detection systems are maintained in proper working order, that fire fighting and lifesaving appliances are in good condition, and that the damage control book is properly maintained; and contains essential information on the ship’s damage control organization, systems, machinery, controls and equipment and serves as a ready reference for both drills and emergencies.

Organizes and coordinates Deck Department work to ensure its efficient and effective accomplishment. Ensures equitable distribution of overtime; ensures subordinates maintain proper hygiene, grooming and uniform standards; exercises disciplinary control over subordinates and initiates disciplinary actions IAW CMPI 750; recognizes and rewards subordinates’ work-accomplishments and achievements using the awards program; conducts career counseling, arranges training, monitors personnel career progressions, and encourages upgrading of licenses and documents; and prepares MAP/Promotion Evaluation Reports as required. Maintains assigned berthing compartment (and office, if assigned) in a neat, clean, and orderly manner. Must be able to effectively use applicable shipboard software applications.

As AT/FP Officer, issues orders to and ensures training of crewmembers to provide force protection, physical security of government property, and security awareness for classified documents and materials. Ensures maintenance of a continuous gangway watch to control personnel and material coming aboard or leaving the ship. Acts as Qual-Cert Board member on board ships with the program. Presides at deck department safety meetings, presents progress reports of outstanding and new safety items and recommendations. Maintains a safety library and keeps personnel and department heads informed on current safety procedures and developments. Oversees Ships Management System (SMS) administration and compliance as Safety Officer. Makes SMS reports as required.

First Officers may serve on some MSC ships, e.g., T-AH’s and T-ATFs (in accordance with requirements of a MEO) with additional responsibilities for managing, supervising, organizing and coordinating the work of the ship to ensure effective and efficient accomplishment.

Towing and salvage First Officers shall be TOAR endorsed or tow qualified and have experience in towing and salvage. First Officers should be competent ship handlers capable of docking, undocking and mooring without tug assistance. They should have superior leadership skills working with Mobile Diving and Salvage Units (MDSU), foreign Navy, and VIP personnel. Towing and Salvage Mates must be proficient at shipboard medical care and have knowledge of the US Navy Tow Manual.

Ensures continuing application of & compliance w/EEO laws, regulations, and policies.

Masters and Department Heads may add to these duties to clarify specific shipboard tasks. Everything in this Position Description is considered to be an essential function of this position. Performs all other duties as assigned.